Qantas to reveal first Project Sunrise ultra-long-haul route

• The non-stop flights will reduce London travel time from current 24-25 hours via Singapore to a maximum of 22 hours, compressing what was once a five-day journey on the 'Kangaroo Route'
• Qantas estimates Project Sunrise could add over A$400 million ($282.68 million) annually to earnings, banking on passengers paying premium prices to avoid layovers
• The airline has ordered 12 customized 238-seat A350-1000ULR planes with extra fuel tanks extending range by 1,000 nautical miles, with first delivery expected April 2027 after five years of pandemic and supply chain delays

Qantas Project Sunrise Summary

Key Initiative: Qantas Airways is set to announce the first destination for its "Project Sunrise" ultra-long-haul flights on June 17, offering the world's longest non-stop services from eastern Australia to London or New York.

Timeline and Delays: Originally conceived in 2017, the project has faced significant delays due to COVID-19 and supply chain issues. Service launch is now expected in late 2027, with first aircraft delivery scheduled for April 2027—approximately five years behind the original timeline.

Flight Details:

• Duration: Up to 22 hours (compared to current 24-25 hours via Singapore)
• Aircraft: 12 modified Airbus A350-1000ULR jets with 238 seats
• Enhanced range: 10,000 nautical miles (1,000 nautical miles increase via extra fuel tank)

Economics:

• Estimated annual earnings impact: A$400 million ($282.68 million)
• Target pricing: Approximately 20% premium over one-stop alternatives in premium cabins
• Success depends on convincing passengers to pay more for time savings and avoiding layovers

Market Context:

• High fuel prices from Gulf conflict have raised break-even thresholds
• Jefferies analysts expect positive market conditions through 2027
• Competition from Gulf carriers like Emirates, though passengers increasingly prefer Asian hubs or direct Perth routes
• Australian government lifted "do not travel" advisory, supporting demand recovery

Fleet Expansion: Reuters reports Qantas is negotiating to purchase 20 additional wide-body jets (A350-900 or Boeing 787s).

Strategic Significance: Project Sunrise represents a major gamble requiring premium cabin revenue to offset operational challenges of extreme-range flying, where significant fuel is consumed simply carrying remaining fuel weight.